LACEY – The Lacey community mourns the loss of the township’s first-ever female mayor, Mary Lou Smith. Smith passed away on Dec. 7.
The Mayor and Township Committee offered their condolences to Smith’s family, stating in a social media post: “Mrs. Smith served her community with distinction as an elected official; she dedicated herself to the service of others.”
Smith was a pioneer during her time in public office, serving as the first female elected official on the township committee and as mayors. She was elected to the committee in 1978 and mayor in 1979.
Smith’s public service included various flagship projects such as “the establishment of Hebrew Park, the formation of the Lanoka Harbor First Aid Squad, construction of the current police department, and negotiations to establish the Lacey Township Middle and High schools,” according to township officials.
Not only this, but Smith also served on the township planning board, as Police Commissioner, chaired the Recreation Committee and the Administrative Committee, and served as Deputy Municipal Clerk for Lacey Township from 1992 to 1995.
Smith did not stop at municipal government; she went on to pursue her passion of public service by joining the Lacey Township Board of Education, serving from 1990 to 1993.
It is with great sadness that the township announced her passing. Smith was also a PTA member, active member of the Girl Scouts of America organization, and a realtor in Lacey.
